Diabetes education for the adult - position statement

ABSTRACT

Women developing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) must be made aware of its definition and incidence, and the risk factors associated with the development of complications in pregnancy. The potential problems inherent in this condition make screening and diagnosis imperative as early as possible during the antenatal period. Affected individuals must be given a simple understanding of the basic pathophysiology of the condition. They must be taught self-management skills involving nutrition counselling, exercise, and monitoring of metabolic status by blood glucose and urine ketone testing. Pharmacological management is usually by insulin administration. The antenatal care programme will monitor foetal movement and provide information about preparation for labour and delivery. Education is also provided on the benefits of breastfeeding. After delivery, pastpartum counselling is mandatory to explain the risk of developing GDM in subsequent pregnancies, the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and the need for establishing healthy life style changes; that is, weight maintenance and increased physical activity. Postpartum evaluation and annual blood glucose testing is important.(AU)